What was a Siege Battery of the Royal Garrison Artillery?

This article describes the composition and structure of a battery equipped with four 6-inch Howitzers, as defined in the army’s “Field Service Pocket Book”, 1914 version. At this period of the war, the Siege Batteries were equipped with the 30-cwt (hundredweight) version of the 6-inch Howitzer. This type had been introduced into service in 1895 . It fired a 100-pound (weight) shell to a maximum range of 6,000 yards.

A 6-inch 30 cwt. howitzer in action. IWM image Q24247. No date or location stated but likely to be Palestine.

The battery would include

Personnel: 5 officers and 177 other ranks

Horses: 17 riding, 6 draught and 80 heavy draught

Transport: 3 two-horse carts, 10 four-horse wagons

The battery would normally be with three others, under command of a Siege Brigade. The brigade would also include an Ammunition Column of:

Site latest

Best in class

The Long, Long Trail is pleased to recommend Battle Honours, the UK’s leading company offering battlefield tours, with the ability and experience to arrange tours for groups of all sizesFor army service records and much more, the Long, Long Trail recommends findmypast

Keep the LLT afloat!

If you have enjoyed using this site and found it valuable, please consider making a donation towards its running costs using the Paypal button below.

Copyright 2019 | Chris Baker | Leamington Spa UK

The Long, Long Trail website uses cookies to improve your experience as a user. You signify acceptance of this when you click the Accept button.AcceptRead More